The Impact of Project Pink on Women's Professional Soccer

Women’s Professional Soccer and PUMA announced their partnership in PUMA’s newest initiative, Project Pink on July 26, 2010.  Project Pink is an initiative designed by PUMA in order to raise both awareness (and funds) in the fight against breast cancer.

Five games in July and August were announced as Project Pink dates and have featured WPS clubs wearing special pink uniforms that were auctioned off after the games.  With one match still to go, the jersey auctions have raised money that has been donated on their behalf to local breast cancer charities.  The response to Project Pink from PUMA, WPS and the fans has been huge.

“Giving back is an integral part of our brand DNA at PUMA which comes to life through our Project Pink program with Women's Professional Soccer,” explained Tara McRae, senior director of marketing for PUMA North America. “ Project Pink has resonated with the players, the fans, and our company. There’s a lot of personal passion driving this program forward, and we’re looking forward to finally taking it public and getting consumers involved.”

As female athletes, raising awareness for breast cancer is something very near and dear to these players’ hearts.  Any loved one can be at risk for this horrible disease and as both a writer and a fan, it’s been incredible to see the impact of this initiative on the athletes and on the organizations.

"PUMA and its Project Pink initiative is just one example of the many ways to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. We have seen our entire organization rally around this cause and embrace Project Pink...we realize that all the women we love are at risk, and through Project Pink we will continue to raise awareness and funds, as well as be activists in supporting the global mission of ending breast cancer!  The Philadelphia Independence is proud to help join in this initiative and support PUMA in the fight to end breast cancer,” said Philadelphia Independence general manager Louise Waxler.

Sky Blue FC announced their new partnership with the South Jersey and Central Jersey chapters of the Susan G. Komen  for the Cure organization in addition to participating in Project Pink (with matches versus the Washington Freedom on August 11 and August 28).

“It is important that Sky Blue FC and Women's Professional Soccer align ourselves with causes that touch our community. Fighting breast cancer is arguably the closest and most important of these causes. We are proud to acknowledge our association with Project Pink, and to partner with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization.” Sky Blue FC General Manager Gerry Marrone added.

Everyone can get involved

Can’t make it to a Project Pink match?  Unable to bid on the autographed Project Pink jerseys post-game?  There are still ways for you – the fans and supporters – to be involved.

PUMA has announced that for every Twitter user who uses the Twitter hash tag #projectpink they will donate $1 per day per user from July 31 through October 18 up to a maximum of $25,000.

Looking for other ways to get involved?  From now until early September, fans can get involved by visiting  wps.pumafootball.com/projectpink and nominating a nonprofit breast cancer awareness charity.  Supporters can then log in and begin voting for the winner starting on September 13. 

The winning charity will receive 100% of the proceeds raised by the sale of Project Pink products.

There is also a variety of Project Pink gear, ranging from replica jerseys to balls and bags available for purchase at shop.puma.com.

Photo courtsey of ISI Photos